A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Choose a growth food for a medium-sized dog and divide the ration into several meals in order to support steady development.
Adult : Adjust the energy intake to work, long walks and body condition, generally in two daily meals.
Senior : Reassess calories, digestibility and joint support with the veterinarian according to activity and changes in weight.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Complete good-quality kibble for an active adult medium-sized dog is suitable, provided it supplies appropriate animal proteins and an energy content consistent with the activity. A home-prepared ration is only recommended if it is formulated by a veterinary nutritionist.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends heavily on the energy density of the food, age, neutering and activity. You should start from the manufacturer's recommendations, observe body condition then adjust gradually with the veterinarian's advice.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 28 - 30 kg | 320 - 390 g | 2 |
| 30 - 32 kg | 340 - 420 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over about a week, increasing the proportion of the new food step by step in order to limit digestive disorders.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, with increased attention after exertion and in hot weather. When traveling, regular breaks to drink are necessary.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional, small in size and integrated into the daily energy ration. They are particularly useful as rewards in a positive and consistent education.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by eye.
- Split the daily food into two meals.
- Avoid intense exercise just before and after the meal.
- Regularly check the body shape and adjust the ration.
Never give
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic in quantity, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts and cooked bones must be avoided, as they can cause poisoning, digestive lesions or obstruction.
